Oregon

Meet Debbi

Workforce Challenge

In the summer of 2009, Debbi was laid off from a local bank, where she worked as an Executive Assistant. She had excellent skills in office administration, but lacked marketable computer technology and bookkeeping skills. She was struggling in her job search, finding very few openings, and she needed to update her technology skills.

Workforce Solution

Debbi was able to access State Additional Assistance funds via the WIB (Oregon Workforce Alliance)through Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC). These funds provided tuition, fees, and textbook assistance for two terms in Computer Information Systems at the local community college. Debbi continued to job search and attended COIC/WorkSource workshops and participated in mock interviewing.

Outcomes & Benefits

Her searching paid off when Debbi was hired for a full-time position as Front Office/Bookkeeper at a new local company. She is now back to work and is continuing her CIS training part-time.